Dear
All,
Peace Action was one of the few organizations to oppose the invasion
of Afghanistan and we have been working ever since to end America's longest
war.
Last week, the House of Representatives took a big step in bringing
all troops home. While considering the National Defense Authorization Act
(NDAA), the House passed an amendment that stated in
part:
[requires] the President to complete the accelerated transition of
combat operations from U.S. Armed Forces to the Government of Afghanistan no
later than by the end of 2013; the accelerated transition of military and
security operations by the end of 2014, including the redeployment of U.S.
troops; and to pursue robust negotiations to address Afghanistan’s and the
region’s security and stability.
Offered by long-time allies Representatives Walter Jones, R-North
Carolina; Barbara Lee, D-California, and John Garamendi, D-California, the
amendment passed with an overwhelming 305-121 (you can see how your Rep. voted
here) Only nine democrats voted against and a majority of
Republicans supported this very clear message to the administration to end the
war.
Your calls, emails and protests over the years have swayed public
opinion and pressured the administration and lawmakers to bring this war to a
close.
Our work opposing the Iraq and Afghanistan wars has made the U.S.
Government much more wary of putting boots on the ground. Take Libya and the
current situation in Syria as examples.
Additionally, other amendments to the NDAA we supported passed such
as language making clear that there is no authorization for a war with
Iran.
Unfortunately, House Republican leaders did not allow amendments that
might cut wasteful weapons systems like nuclear weapons.
There were a number of amendments that Peace Action took a stance on.
You may see the outcomes here.
The next step on the NDAA will be when the Senate brings it to the
floor sometime in the fall where we expect allies to offer similar Afghanistan
language and opportunities to reduce the swelling Pentagon
budget.
In the next few weeks, the House will take up the "Defense
Appropriations" bill where the Congress decides how much to fund projects that
it has authorized. We expect amendments to cut unneeded, wasteful weapons
systems.
Thanks again for your hard work and support. Let's use this
Afghanistan victory to help cut wasteful Pentagon
spending.
Humbly for Peace,
Kevin
Martin
Executive Director
Peace Action
P.S.
We need your support to continue garnering peace victories. Please become a Peace Sustainer today so we can continue creating a peaceful
world with a government that uses your taxes on items your values
support.
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